Starting University Next Year? Everything You Need To Know

Deciding to go into higher education is a sensible life choice. When you have completed your A levels, gaining a degree will further your chances of landing your dream job. With an ever-competitive job market, you need to make sure that you give yourself the best-possible chance. If you are in your final year of sixth form, you will notice that people have already begun talking about university. If you find the entire topic confusing, you need a little guidance. Here is everything you need to know about university.

Where should you study?

There are many options available to you if you decide to go to university. Before you decide where to study, you should think about what would suit you best. If you are the type of person who is likely to get homesick, you should think about staying at home and studying at a local institute. If you can’t wait to get away, and see the world, you might want to study abroad. What matters is what’s right for you. At the end of the day, nobody can make this decision for you.

Choosing the right course

Choosing the right course is a huge deal. Which course you choose now will determine your future career. You need to think long and hard about what you want to do with your life. If you’re not sure what career you want, you might want to take a gap year before university. Diving into a degree when you’re not sure what you want out of it is a waste of time and money. Make sure that you choose a degree that applies to a vocation. For example, you could choose nursing or law as both these degrees lead into jobs.

Applying to university

You should make sure that you apply to university early. If you haven’t started your application yet, you should. You need to apply through the UCAS system online. Don’t worry about filling out the form online. The questions are pretty straightforward, and so you should find it easy enough. Make sure that you dedicate a lot of time to writing your personal statement. Don’t think about what you want to say about yourself; think about what the university wants to hear. For example, if you are applying for an English degree, emphasise that you love reading. Don’t just tell people that you will be an excellent student; show them. Give examples of times when you have excelled in your work.

Preparing for university

Once a university has accepted your application, you can start preparing for university. Use the time you have before you leave to gather all the things you need. Look at some cool college dorm room ideas online so that you have some inspiration for your room. You will need to take basic things with you to university. Make sure you remember to take plates, bed sheets, food and any home comforts you need. Loads of people get homesick when they first leave home. Don’t worry. It is a natural part of life. Make sure that you have things with you so that you feel at home in your new environment.

Balancing a part-time job and university work

The fact of the matter is that many people now have to work while they are studying. Your student loan will cover basic amenities, but you will likely need more money than it pays you. Loads of students have part-time jobs at university. If you check inside your students’ union, there should be a job shop. If you commit to a part-time job, you will need to manage your time. Make sure that you don’t take on too many hours at your job, or it might hinder your studies.